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28 August 2024

Living Legend John Whitaker as Never Seen Before In Rising Above: Defying Age

Living Legend John Whitaker as Never Seen Before In Rising Above: Defying Age

Longines presents Rising Above: Episode 4 - John Whitaker, Defying Age

“The sport has changed so much, if you want to move up you have to change with the times.”


In the fourth instalment of 'Rising Above' presented by Longines, equestrian icon John Whitaker takes the brand new free content series to a whole new level. Titled 'Defying Age', the episode spotlights the extraordinary journey of John Whitaker, a true living legend in the world of show jumping. At 69 years old, Whitaker continues to defy expectations, proving that age is just a number when it comes to competing at the highest level.

In Defying Age, viewers are taken on a deeply personal and inspiring journey through Whitaker’s career, revealing the secrets behind his enduring success and the mindset that has kept him at the top of his game for decades. With his trademark humility and humour, Whitaker shares insights into his remarkable career, from his early days to his enduring love for the sport, and his ongoing drive to compete against the best in the world.

"In show jumping, there's no time to dwell on mistakes. You have to learn to live with losing, and think about the next competition or the next day. You need to keep going," Whitaker reflects, encapsulating the relentless spirit that has defined his career.

The episode begins with Whitaker reminiscing about his favourite horse, Milton, a true superstar of the sport. “Milton was my all-time favourite. He wasn’t a very big horse, but when he went into the arena, he grew.” However, after Milton, Whitaker faced a challenging period, struggling to find new horses that could match Milton’s prowess.

With tears in his eyes John let viewers into a side we don’t normally see of him: “After Milton it was quite difficult. I had a couple of years where I was a bit down. It was a challenge to get back up to the top again. Sometimes the hardest thing is to pull yourself together after a bad day and face the next competition,” he admits.

Rising Above: Episode 4 - John Whitaker - “Defying Age"

Defying Age also delves into the physical and mental challenges Whitaker has faced, including a series of injuries that would have made many riders consider hanging up their boots. He recounts his fall at the Longines Global Champions Tour in London on his 62nd birthday, a moment that could have ended his career. But for Whitaker, giving up was never an option. “If you start to think about injuries, then it's time to give up. It’s not going to work. I think you have to be focused on what you want to do,” he asserts with conviction.

At 69, with over 100 major titles to his name Whitaker’s passion for the sport burns as brightly as ever. “People ask me, how long are you going to carry on riding? I say, I’m feeling good. I’m going to keep going longer, because I have a new pair of boots,” he quips, showcasing the wit and determination that have made him a beloved figure in the sport.

The episode crescendos with a powerful affirmation of Whitaker’s enduring ambition. “My proudest achievement is to compete against all these good young riders and hold my own. Wait, I haven’t finished yet. I still want to keep going and winning.” His advice to the younger generation is simple but profound: “Get over your obstacles in life as quickly as you can. Try and stay positive, enjoy, and keep going.”

Episode four is a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration, not just in the realm of show jumping, but in life. Whitaker’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the unyielding human spirit.

The Longines Global Champions Tour’s Rising Above series, produced in partnership with Longines, is quickly becoming a landmark in sports storytelling. Each episode captures the essence of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels, offering an intimate look at the lives and careers of some of the world’s most respected athletes. The series has already garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and compelling narratives.

John Whitaker’s episode, Defying Age, is now available to stream on YouTube and all social media channels, providing fans with an unparalleled look at the life of one of show jumping’s living legends.

Learn more about the series
Watch 'Rising Above' on GCTV
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